G-STIC at COP29: Science, Technology and Innovation for a sustainable future
COP29 marked significant progress while underscoring ongoing challenges in global climate action. The adoption of the $300 billion climate finance goal was confirmed, though its implementation pathways remain unclear. Progress on Article 6 with a carbon credits agreement was achieved, yet the system still requires further refinement. Amid these complexities, COP29 reaffirmed the value of uniting diverse stakeholders to drive climate solutions. G-STIC’s participation at COP29 exemplified this collaborative spirit.
Exploring Science and Technology at the G-STIC side event
The G-STIC side event at the SDG Pavilion during COP29 delved into the essential role of science and technology in tackling climate challenges, focusing on insights from the recent Summit of the Future and their implications for COP30 and beyond. Science and technology are not only essential for reducing emissions but also for building resilience and fostering adaptation.
With rapid advancements in AI, biotechnology, and data analytics, climate action is transforming. AI-driven tools offer enhanced climate modeling, predictive analytics, and real-time ecosystem monitoring, empowering policymakers with insights for impactful decisions. Biotechnology innovations, such as sustainable biofuels and food systems, have the potential to decarbonize key sectors while improving food security. However, these advancements also bring potential risks, such as inequalities in access, unforeseen environmental consequences, and ethical concerns.
G-STIC highlighted the importance of collaboration, capacity-building, and democratizing innovation to accelerate climate action globally.
Equitable and sustainable development
At the G-STIC side event, Mr. Anshuman (TERI), Brian Mantlana (CSIR), Guilherme Franco Netto (Fiocruz), and Yiran Lyu (GIEC), representing G-STIC’s co-hosting institutions, engaged in a compelling discussion on how science and technology can drive equitable and sustainable development.
They emphasized the critical need for international collaboration to address the global challenge of climate change. Scaling up technology transfer, capacity-building efforts, and financial support were identified as key enablers to help all nations, regardless of their resources, transition to a low-carbon future.
Strengthening science-policy links
At another side event “Global risk resilience discourse and adaptation”, organized by our co-host TERI, Ilke Geleyn (Programme Manager of G-STIC) underscored the importance of science-based decision-making tools in addressing climate challenges. She called for multi-stakeholder collaboration to integrate local knowledge and address regional challenges effectively.
This approach reflects G-STIC’s mission to support policymakers with actionable insights and foster innovation to support sustainable development at all levels.
International climate finance
Flemish Minister of Climate, Melissa Depraetere, reiterated the region’s commitment to fulfilling international climate finance obligations.
G-STIC coordinates the Flanders International Climate Action Programme (FICAP) to support countries in the Global South in the fight against climate change. During COP29, Minister Depraetere engaged with key organizations involved in the Flanders International Climate Action Programme, including CO2Logic, Join for Water, VVOB, and VITO, highlighting the programme's distinctive innovative approach to climate action.
Looking ahead
COP29 was a powerful reminder of the complexity and urgency of the climate crisis. The scale of the challenge is immense, with far-reaching impacts that demand coordinated action across sectors, nations, and communities, ensuring equal representation for all voices. While the decision-making process can be slow and frustrating, the determination, passion and expertise of attendees from around the world offered a beacon of hope.
Looking ahead, G-STIC is focused on fostering inclusive partnerships, supporting technological advancements that prioritize sustainability, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition to a low-carbon future.
